Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

But the individuals will not be influenced by them. It is very important to be clear on that. If the Deputy has any concerns about this or views on how the arrangement could be strengthened, I will be very happy to hear them and determine how we can achieve what is proposed.

With regard to compensation levels, we have to reach an agreement with the banks, based on the powers available, on who will be affected first and how they will receive redress and compensation. There will be differing levels of compensation for people. The main factor that should influence this should be the individual's circumstances. I expect and want everybody to be treated fairly in this matter.

I should have said in responding to an earlier question by the Deputy that, since this issue developed, I have met a number of people who have been directly affected. The Oireachtas committee had met people; I had not. I felt it was appropriate to do so. I met over recent days a representative group of affected people. I already knew about the level of stress caused for people. That has been confirmed to me again. A reason I met the ombudsman recently was to deal with what will happen in the aftermath of the publication of the report in December.

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